Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail: Hancock to Licking Creek

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail: Hancock to Licking Creek is a 16.2 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Hancock, Maryland that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, trail running, horses, and mountain biking and is best used from March until May. Dogs and horses are also able to use this trail.

dog friendly

kid friendly

hiking

horseback riding

mountain biking

running

forest

river

Hancock has an exit where Routes 40 and 70 meet. Take Route 522 south to Route 144 East. At the next light turn right onto S. Pennsylvania Avenue and then right onto Canal St. This will take you across the canal to the parking and camping area. (N39 41.865 W78 10.900)
There are water fountains and porta-johns at the Little Tonoloway Recreation Area. C&O Bicycles is on the north side of the canal and has everything you'd need.
The parking area at Licking Creek is just off of Route 40 (N39 39.321 W78 3.154)

Was actually riding a mountain bike.
The paved rail trail allowed me to get to a turnaround point faster, then I switched to the tow path for the return.
This trail is calling me for a longer ride just as soon as possible.